Solved: Router 2600 CPU Usage 100%

avilt · ‎02-17-2009

I have the below router in production which is showing CPU usage 100% during some file transfer between the segments.

IOS (tm) C2600 Software (C2600-I-M), Version 12.3(19), RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc2)

I am using only two fast ethernet interfaces on this router which are connected to a cisco switch and are autonegotiated to 100MBPS. IP CEF is also set on the router.

Is it natural for the router to show CPU usage 100% during big file transfer? Is there any work around?

Leo Laohoo · ‎02-18-2009

The 3560 is a multi-layer (L2/L3). You can do OSPF if you have the Enhanced license installed.

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paolo bevilacqua · ‎02-17-2009

There is no work around. The performances of the 2600 are just not adequate for fast ethernet, and it is also slowing down the file transfer

Get a bigger router or perhaps a L3 switch like an 8 ports 3560, that is very cost effective.

Joseph W. Doherty · ‎02-17-2009

Agree with Paolo. For LAN FastEthernet or GigEthernet, you often want to consider L3 switches. The 3560 model I think he is refering too would be the Catalyst 3560-8PC, more info on that series here: http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/switches/ps5528/index.html

avilt · ‎02-18-2009

My current router is running OSPF with 2 fa interfaces. I am not looking for a switch though, but can I use the above switch as router as well?

Leo Laohoo · ‎02-18-2009

The 3560 is a multi-layer (L2/L3). You can do OSPF if you have the Enhanced license installed.

Leo Laohoo · ‎02-18-2009

Thanks for the rating.

avilt · ‎04-05-2009

I have some more queries.

1. How can I see the active traffic session on the router like netstat -n on windows?

2. I have set IP CEF on my router. Is it O.K? Do I need to configure ip route-cache {path} or Fast switching on any interface?

CPU utilization on my router goes high even when I transfer a 50MB file.

Joseph W. Doherty · ‎04-06-2009

"CPU utilization on my router goes high even when I transfer a 50MB file."

Yes, that's to be expected! Reread Paolo's post.

For even a single FastEthernet interface, you need a much, much faster software router or a L3 switch. (The software routers are often most suitable for WAN bandwidths.)

PS:

#1 netflow cache or IP accounting stats might provide the information you want

#2 generally you always want CEF active, with it you don't need route-cache (CEF is even better than fast switching), however you might also activate flow cache